A few new records have been released into the wild of late, in fact, it feels like we are going through an awesome period, with heaps of great musicians putting out lots of good music. Some of my favorite artists have treated us to new tunes – here are some records I reckon you should get your hands on.

Sufjan Stevens – the Age of Adz

Released October, 2010

Sufjan has been on high rotation in our house since we first heard of him in 2004. When I heard he was releasing a new record I was excited. I was so familiar with his sounds – sweetly delivered vocals, banjo, rough and ready guitars, big, barely in-tune brass, swelling strings etc… I was somewhat surprised when I heard this new record – one that has only a few little tastes of the Sufjan of old… it wasn’t until I saw Sufjan perform the album, and explain where it has come from that I began to appreciate the complexity of it all. It’s a full-immersion experience – an all or nothing kind of thing, and I think my first few superficial listens were never going to get me “over the line.” He is one of the most interesting artists around, to say “Sufjan’s gone electronic” doesn’t quite cut it… It won’t make you love his song writing, coz it almost takes a backseat. What I love about this record is the scale of the sounds, the layers, the amazing melodies. It’s a mad capped masterpiece!

Ron Sexsmith – Long Player Late Bloomer

Released February, 2011

Ron is a prolific songwriter and I have heaps of his music in my collection. I often come back to his records, and have enjoyed his live shows over the years. This record is somewhat of a surprise – he’s collaborated with producer Bob Rock, best known for producing bands such as Aerosmith, The Cult, Bon Jovi, Mötley Crüe, 311, Metallica, Our Lady Peace, The Offspring and so on… When I heard about Ron moving in a new direction, I was concerned. I love his sound, and wondered if Bob Rock might ruin it. Fortunately, Ron’s skill is in writing, and although the production approach on this record took some getting used to, Ron’s songs still shine through.

Radiohead – King of Limbs

Released February, 2011

Another long time favorite… I was really pleased when the vinyl “newspaper” edition of the album arrived on our doorstep… I’d had plenty of time to get used to this album before hand, and it did take some getting used to. On first listen, I thought to myself “ahhh, predictable old Radiohead, how disappointing.” I think I was expecting a monumental change in direction, that seems to come every couple of releases with Thom and co. Having said that, I have been rewarded with each fresh listen. There is so much to these sounds – it is worth persisting if you’re feeling let down!

Noah and the Whale – Last Night on Earth

Released March, 2011

Noah and the Whale won my heart with their record “The First Days of Spring.” A heartbreakingly honest breakup album, full of lush strings, tasty electric guitar sounds and heavy hearted themes. So, I didn’t fully expect the followup record to be filled with 80′s inspired electronic beats, synths and the generally “up” vibe. Nor did i expect for it to remind me of listening to Lou Reed records, but it does! This album is best played at high volumes, in the car, preferably on your own, so you can sing along at the top of your voice. I’m finding it to be a fine addition to the “pump up” album collection.

Bon Iver – Bon Iver

Released June, 2011

Bon Iver seems to have come out of nowhere… Which is apparently where he recorded his last album – his incredible debut “For Emma, Forever Ago.” The new album seems to be winning some people over, and not others – though it is still very early days! I personally like the new record, but can understand why some people are disappointed. With his previous record, the bar has been set so high that anything to follow is almost certainly set to fall down in comparison. All this aside, I love the musicality on display, and can really hear his musical influences laced throughout – at times I’m sure he is channelling Peter Gabriel! What it lacks in the raw emotion that was so evident on his previous record, is made up for in sheer skill and musicality. In time, this record will stand up on it’s own!

Gillian Welch – Harrow and the Harvest

Released June, 2011

Gillian Welch and Dave Rawlings have put together a stunner! I’ve had this album all of about 10 hours, and listened to it twice. I’m already convinced! The incredible thing about the music these two create, is that there is so much in there. Rawlings is a guitar virtuoso, Gillian’s voice is amazing, and at times their harmonies give me chills! I’m sure in time I’ll have more to say about this record, but if you are a fan – don’t hesitate, if you’re not, “get on board!”